Emissions on the increase

Greenhouse gas emissions from world energy generation reached record levels in 2010. Energy-related CO2 emissions are now at their highest level in history. The UN has called on governments to provide “strong new progress towards global solutions to climate change”. Geothermal heat should be part of the solution.

The importance of renewable energy

Renewable energy can go a long way to decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. Unless bold decisions are made at government level:

80% of all projected greenhouse gas emissions will come from the power sector by 2020.

The 2% target under the Kyoto Protocol for emissions will not be reached by 2020.

Greenhouse gas emissions will continue to rise to unsustainable levels.

Geothermal energy can help

Geothermal energy can contribute to carbon emissions reduction. Governments must look to including geothermal heat on their renewable energy roadmaps. Tariffs and incentives such as the Renewable Heat Incentive in UK will provide stimulus for the market.

Did you know?

In Iceland, 96% of the countries heat is provided by geothermal power. By 2050, it could meet 3% of the global electricity demand and 5% of the world’s demand for heating and cooling.